14.013 BF276Bucculatrix demaryella

(Duponchel, 1840)

Wingspan c. 9mm.

Distributed across much of the British Isles, though somewhat overlooked and difficult to find, particularly as an adult.

The larva initially forms a gallery on the underside of a leaf of birch (Betula), and occasionally hazel (Corylus) or sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa). Later it feeds on the epidermis, creating windows on the leaf. Like other Bucculatrix species, it pupates in a pale, ribbed cocoon.

There is a single generation, with adult moths at large in May and June, and larvae feeding during August.